Scotty Donaldson looks at some impressive players to watch in the June Internationals.
There were some amazing players on display in the June International rugby fixtures, who impressed you the most?
It was difficult to single out any particular All Blacks, in their impressive victory over Ireland, while Ireland had some good individual performers. Will Genia was the difference for Australia against Wales, while South Africans Willem Alberts and Jean De Villiers were two standouts in a good South African victory over England.
Players to watch
Julian Savea (New Zealand) - Savea was a former New Zealand Sevens star who has now come of age as a player in the fifteens version of the game. He scored three tries, made some bone jarring tackles and some great breaks. Savea has been in great Super Rugby form and it will be interesting to see how he builds on this effort.
Sonny Bill Williams (New Zealand) - SBW was a handful for the Ireland backs and although he made a few mistakes, he also created so much space for his outside backs by drawing in the defence. He is big and strong while his ability to offload makes him a handful.
Daniel Carter (New Zealand) - Carter was back to some golden form on Saturday night. He only missed one kick and he directed play well. His only slip up was turning the ball over once which lead to the Ireland try. He flourished outside Aaron Smith and a relatively dominant All Blacks pack.
Aaron Smith (New Zealand) - Smith was brilliant on debut and his quick passing game unleashed the All Blacks backline, giving them plenty more space than they are used to.
It was difficult not to pick more All Blacks after their dominant performance. They could have scored even more tries than they did!
Sean O'Brien (Ireland) - The Irish Number Seven made heaps of tackles, mind you he had to since Ireland only had 41 percent of possession. He also won them some turnovers at the breakdown.
Will Genia (Australia) - Genia is a genius from halfback for Australia. He was a cut above anyone else on the field in Australia's victory over Wales. His great solo try was important as was his excellent pass which put Pat McCabe in for the winning try.
Jean De Villiers (South Africa) - Jean De Villiers oozes professionalism with his attitude, leadership and general play. He scored a try against England and impressive at centre.
Willem Alberts (South Africa) - Alberts was a vital cog in the Springbok wheel. Many picked him for Man of the Match. The Shark brings such a physical element to the game and the Springboks seem to play that style really well. Marcell Coetzee also had a great game in the loose.
Felipe Contepomi (Argentina) - I didn't watch Argentina defeat Italy and Contepomi raise his points scoring record with 22 points including one try, three penalties and four conversions.
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